On April 1st, one hundred years since the formation of the Royal Air Force, a specially designed baton set off on a journey around the UK and abroad. Carried over 100 days by volunteers that all have a connection to the RAF, it is visiting visit 100 sites associated with the RAF.
On Monday (June 4) the baton, carried by RAF pilots from 100 squadron, will bring the baton to Durham Tees Valley Airport as show of respect for the many servicemen who served at the airfield during its time as Middleton St George RAF base from 1941 to 1963.
The arrival of the baton will be marked with a flypast by two RAF Tutor aircraft followed by a tour of the airfield. It will follow this weekend’s annual memorial events organised to honour the airmen, including many from the Royal Canadian Air Force, who flew from the airfield during the Second World War.
Says Airport Manager Shaun Woods “We are delighted to be playing a part in celebrating the centenary of the RAF. Of course, the airfield has a proud history of service, especially during the Second World War, and we continue to maintain strong links, for example through our specialist Handling unit, Consort Aviation.
The relay began its journey at the Royal Courts of Justice on April 1 and will end 100 days later on July 10 on Horseguards Parade.
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